The beginning of Winter quarter is one of the most important times of the year. It is easily looked over because of the time taken to readjust to college life after a long break. The first couple of weeks in January essentially decides how comfortably you will live next year. This is due to the timing of leases. Most landlords will ask their tenants to decide by mid to late January whether or not they will be keeping their place again. Planning early and wisely will help a student have a better year next year.

The Scouting Report

The Scouting Report refers to your pre-lease studies. Before you ever decide on one apartment, dorm or house, you must do some research. It is very likely you will not get your first choice, even if you are at the renter's place the first day. It would be very wise to make a list of several different places you would like.

Touring all of these places before signing a lease is also very important. With how old some buildings are in the area, the outside might be a completely different story from the inside. Check the place for damage and measure out rooms. Also go online and check out the average prices of utilities to give you a better idea of how much it really costs to live there.

Once your top 5 or 10 is completed you will be better prepared than most.